Seventeen good years have now passed since President Jammeh assumed the mantle of leadership of The Gambia. November 24th 2011 would mark the fourth consecutive time Gambians would show approval of his leadership. President Jammeh  has so far comfortably won three elections, and certainly heading for another landslide victory in the fourth election.

The political conduct of Gambians even before the official countdown to the polls began has already endorsed this conclusion.  The several meetings held between the various regions and the president illuminates the political consciousness and stand of the Gambian people. It is Jammeh -forward with The Gambia.

What engendered this reality is simple. Gambians continue to rally behind the APRC leadership because of the dynamic and visionary leadership qualities of President Jammeh and the numerous development projects brought by the regime. No human being with conscience can argue otherwise.  The Jammeh regime’s numerous achievements in the sphere of national development have made Gambians understand that the leadership came  with a purpose and clearly articulated objectives for self-determination and sustainable development of the country.

From the onset, the aims and objectives of President Jammeh have included the establishment of a democratic Gambian state, whose people would be infused with a sense of national unity and purpose. During the course of these 17 years, the development philosophy has been essentially pragmatic and down to earth. This philosophy is rooted in our keen awareness of the limitations of our country's circumstances on one hand, and on the other, our faith in the dignity of efforts as opposed to despair.

As the president himself appealed during his various meetings with the regional delegates at state house, a change of attitude particularly on the part of the people particularly our youth is therefore essential to complement the efforts of the government in our development process. It is widely argued that every government is a reflection of its people. Therefore, the extent of popular participation will determine how well a government will serve its people.

A massive turn out of Gambians come November 24th to once more endorse President Jammeh’s development agenda would not only illustrate that Gambians are appreciative of the development achievements of this government, but would also illustrate how much Gambians value our country and desire development.

What we should do now is to continue to manifest the spirit of loyalty and be in solidarity with the efforts of the government. 17 years has placed us on a greater path to success than ever before in the annals of our history.